Rate rises proposed

Press, 25 May 1977, Page 17

Rate rises proposed

Many residents of Paparua County will be paying at least 20 per cent more in rates next year, if recommendations by two local community councils are adopted. Increases of 20 and 22 j per cent over last financial year’s rates, were agreed by the Hornby and Sockburn Community Councils for their respective areas, at separate meetings. Subject to approval by the Paparua County Council, the rate for Hornbv will be .5908 cents in the dollar, and that for Sockburn .4840 cents. Although Sockburn’s rates will increase by a higher percentage, it is a rise of only about. .09 cents over last year's rates compared with a .1 cents rise for the neighbouring community. Hornby’s rates will produce about $245,000, with National Roads Board subsidies and petrol tax returning about $66,000. Sockburn will gain about $235,000 through rates, with N.R.B. and petrol returns being about $57,000. Works in Sockburn are estimated on available monies to »cost about

$91,000, with library, recreational reserves and maintenance expenses, and the Town Hall contribution; amounting to about $56,000. The community’s share of the countv general account will be $137,000. Works in Hornby should cost about $120,000, internal costs about $71,000, and the county contribution about $117,000. Contributions to the county account by its other pair of administrative dsitricts — the Hals w e 11 Community Council and the Rural District — will amount to about $361,000. Sockburn could gain a $4BOO skateboard rink at Sockburn Park, if the community council’s recommendation is I

accepted by the county council. A large sealed basin, the shape of a kidney is envisaged, with high sides sloping down to a flat area in the middle. It would be sited next to the swimming pool, making use of existing ground contours. The community council’s recommendation followed receipt of a 56name petition from local children, calling for such an area. It is believed the Hornby council may also consider the provision of such an area at Wycola Park. Grants totalling $1796 to the Ferrymead Trust and $462 to the Orana Park Wildlife Reserve will be made by both community councils.